United States

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 3 months ago | positive

Trump, Modi Meet Halfway to Put Indo-US Relations on Even Keel

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump met in Washington to strengthen Indo-US relations. Modi expressed willingness to adjust policies to address trade imbalances. Trump offered to sell state-of-the-art fighter jets to India. Both leaders highlighted a strong bond and targeted US$500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. Modi emphasized cooperation on AI, semiconductors, and supply chains. Trump signed reciprocal tariffs to match India's high tariffs. India's weighted average tariff on US exports is 9.5% versus 3% on Indian exports to the US. The meeting occurred days after Modi's BJP swept Delhi elections.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 4 months ago | concerned

Modi, Trump To Face Thorny Issues in Talks This Week

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United States from 12 to 13 February for talks with US President Donald Trump. Key issues include the harsh treatment of illegal Indian immigrants deported from the US, threatened punitive tariffs on Indian products, and the US-India Defence Act. India has 478 remaining illegal immigrants (or 170,000 per US estimates) and faces a potential 100% tariff on BRICS nations. In 2024, India-US bilateral trade was $118.2 billion, with India exporting $77.5 billion and importing $40.7 billion, resulting in a $36 billion surplus for India. India may increase defence imports from the US.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 4 months ago | neutral

Trump’s Presumptions About President McKinley May Not Be Accurate

In his inaugural address on 20 January 2025, US President Donald Trump praised President William McKinley (1897-1901) as a model for raising tariffs and expansionist policy. Trump admired McKinley for making America rich through tariffs and talent, and pledged to rename Denali to Mount McKinley. Historians have differing views on McKinley: some consider him a weak president pressured into war, others a cunning imperialist. McKinley was hesitant to go to war with Spain in 1898 but was driven by public pressure. He later regretted aggressive actions. The article suggests Trump's admiration may overlook McKinley's reluctance.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 4 months ago | concerned

Trump-Led America Poses Challenges to India

US President Donald Trump's presidency poses challenges to India, as emphasized in a phone call with PM Modi. Trump stressed the need for India to increase procurement of American security equipment and pursue fair bilateral trade. Despite a pleasant initial interaction, concerns arise over Trump's aggressive nationalism, potential tariff hikes, H-1B visa reductions, and illegal immigration disputes. Trump's administration demands reciprocity, contrasting with Biden's approach. Modi is expected to visit Washington in February, easing speculation of weakened ties. However, Trump's unilateralism may hinder strategic autonomy for other nations.

The Standard | 1 year, 4 months ago | optimistic

President Muizzu expresses optimism for strengthened U.S.-Maldives relations under President Trump

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu congratulated Donald Trump on his inauguration as the 47th President of the United States via a post on X. Muizzu expressed best wishes for Trump's leadership and optimism for strengthened U.S.-Maldives relations. He stated the Maldives looks forward to working with the new administration to advance shared goals for global peace and elevate the long-standing bilateral partnership.

The Standard | 1 year, 4 months ago | concerned

Maldives secures $50 million loan from U.S. firm amid economic challenges

On November 8, 2024, the State Trading Organisation (STO) of the Maldives secured a $50 million loan from Cargill Financial Services International (CFSI) with a sovereign guarantee. The loan carries 13.13% interest and matures in three years, with $25 million due after two and a half years. The funds will finance imports of medicines and staple goods. The Maldivian economy faces challenges, with total public debt at $8.2 billion (116% of GDP) in early 2024. The World Bank projected 4.7% growth for 2024. India rolled over a $50 million loan and approved over $750 million in currency swaps. China signed a financial cooperation agreement in September 2024. The government ended its debt advisory engagement with Centerview Partners in October 2024 and plans bilateral debt management and fiscal adjustments.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 6 months ago | concerned

Impact of US Court’s Indictment of Adani on Indo-US Relations

Indian billionaire Gautam Adani faces a US arrest warrant issued by a New York court for allegedly bribing Indian officials with $265 million to secure $2 billion in solar energy contracts, using US investor funds in violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. A grand jury indicted Adani and seven others. The case could impact India-US relations. Deputy Assistant Attorney General Lisa H Miller stated the Criminal Division will aggressively prosecute such conduct.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 7 months ago | neutral

Similarities Between the Electoral Politics of Trump and Modi

The article analyzes similarities between Donald Trump's 2024 US presidential victory and Narendra Modi's 2014 and 2019 Indian election wins. Both leaders exploited historical grievances and tapped into grassroots discontent. In the US, Kamala Harris failed to connect with voters on economic and immigration issues, while Trump capitalized on cultural fractures. In India, Modi's Hindutva ideology consolidated Hindu support, while Congress lacked a clear vision. Both campaigns leveraged resentment against establishment parties.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 7 months ago | neutral

US Presidential Election’s Impact on Maldives and South Asia

This analysis discusses the impact of the US presidential election on South Asia, predicting policy continuity under either Trump or Harris. For the Maldives, relations are expected to be smooth as President Muizzu's government appears pro-India and less pro-China. The US has provided $36 million in bilateral aid since 2018 and signed a defense framework in 2020. US-India relations are strained due to allegations of assassination plots against Sikh separatists, with both the US and Canada accusing Indian agents. The article cites IR experts and notes strong bipartisan support for US-India ties.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 11 months ago | neutral

Maldives, US Hold Business Roundtable to Strengthen Economic Ties

Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed participated in a US-Maldives Business Roundtable organized by the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington D.C. on July 9, 2024, as part of a trade delegation visit to the US. The visit aims to deepen trade and investment ties. The trade delegation was announced by President Mohamed Muizzu on February 27, 2024, for a July 10 visit. Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer visited the US in June. Meanwhile, the US Senate is considering sanctions on Maldives over its ban on Israeli passport holders due to the Gaza conflict.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 11 months ago | positive

Foreign Minister Zameer Meets US Secretary of State Blinken

Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington D.C. to enhance bilateral relations, focusing on defence, security, democracy, economic growth, and climate change. Blinken called Maldives an important partner and emphasized a free and open Indo-Pacific. Zameer reaffirmed commitments to climate, democracy, and maritime security. He also met USAID Administrator Samantha Power, expressing gratitude for USAID support. Zameer will travel to New York for meetings with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and USG Li Junhua, as well as tour operators and Maldivian diaspora.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 11 months ago | positive

Minister Zameer Embarks on Strategic US Visit to Bolster Relations

Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer began an official visit to the United States from 24 to 27 June to bolster bilateral relations. He is scheduled to meet senior US officials including Secretary of State Antony Blinken and USAID Administrator Samantha Power, as well as UN figures like Secretary-General António Guterres. The visit includes an interactive session at the Council of Foreign Relations and meetings with the Maldivian diaspora and tour operators. Since President Mohamed Muizzu assumed office in November 2023, US-Maldives diplomatic exchanges have increased. The US has pledged patrol boats for maritime security and is exploring investment opportunities through the Development Finance Corporation.

Maldives Republic | 2 years ago | concerned

US Casts Doubt on Gaza Ceasefire Plan as Hamas Proposes Changes

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed skepticism about Hamas' proposed changes to a UN-backed Gaza ceasefire plan. Hamas and PIJ submitted responses to mediators Qatar and Egypt. Israel opposes ceasefire before dismantling Hamas. Gaza's health system faces collapse due to fuel shortage. A UN investigation accused both sides of war crimes since October 7, with over 37,000 Palestinians killed.

Maldives Republic | 2 years ago | concerned

Israel’s War on Gaza: Netanyahu Contradicts US Ceasefire Offer

US President Joe Biden confirmed Israel is ready to move forward with a ceasefire proposal devised with the US, Egypt, and Qatar, including a ceasefire and phased withdrawal. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu contradicted this, demanding total destruction of Hamas. Netanyahu's coalition is in turmoil, with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir threatening resignation and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich criticizing the proposal. US National Security Spokesperson John Kirby emphasized the proposal is Israeli. Since October 2023, at least 36,550 Palestinians have been killed and 82,959 wounded in Gaza.

Maldives Republic | 2 years ago | tense

Biden Slams ICC Prosecutor’s Application for Arrest Warrants Against Israeli Officials as Outrageous

US President Joe Biden condemned ICC prosecutor Karim Khan's application for arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and three Hamas leaders (Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif, Ismail Haniyeh). Biden called the move outrageous, accusing the ICC of false equivalence between Israel and Hamas. Germany agreed, while South Africa welcomed the decision. Biden reiterated US support for Israel, referencing the war in Gaza where over 35,000 Palestinians have been killed. The article also notes separate ICJ genocide case by South Africa.

Maldives Republic | 2 years ago | neutral

US Completes Pier to Deliver Aid to Gaza; ICJ to Hear South Africa’s New Request

US Central Command completed a temporary pier in Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid, with trucks expected to arrive under UN auspices. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) will hear South Africa's request for additional emergency measures against Israel, including withdrawal from Rafah. Hezbollah launched its deepest strike into Israel, targeting a military facility near Golani Junction, prompting Israeli airstrikes on Baalbek. Arab leaders convened in Bahrain for a summit on Gaza. In Israel, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant challenged Prime Minister Netanyahu to present post-war plans for Gaza, while Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh indicated the group's involvement in postwar governance. The conflict has displaced at least 600,000 Palestinians and killed over 35,000, mostly women and children.

Maldives Republic | 2 years, 1 month ago | neutral

Starliner Mission Delayed Amidst Rocket Troubles

NASA's planned launch of astronauts aboard the Boeing Starliner spacecraft was called off Monday night due to a valve issue with the Atlas V rocket. The problem involved a buzzing valve in the rocket's oxygen tank. Engineers evaluated the issue, and a decision on a Tuesday night launch was pending. ULA CEO Tory Bruno emphasized safety, noting the valve issue was non-threatening but led to cancellation. The Starliner programme has faced many delays and cost overruns. Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams were to be aboard. NASA and ULA are monitoring the situation.

Maldives Republic | 2 years, 1 month ago | tense

Over 2,000 Anti-Genocide Protesters Arrested from US College Campuses as Police Crackdown Continues

Over 2,000 anti-genocide protesters have been arrested nationwide from US college campuses. Police actions occurred at NYU, the New School, UCLA (over 200 detained), Dartmouth (over 90), University of New Hampshire, University of Buffalo, and Oregon. President Biden stated that peaceful protest is protected but violence is not, and declined to deploy the National Guard. The UK announced sanctions against extremist Israeli groups and individuals in the West Bank. WHO reported marginal food improvement in Gaza, but famine risk persists. UN warned that an Israeli incursion into Rafah would endanger hundreds of thousands. Israel continued attacks, killing 26 Palestinians in 24 hours, including 7 in Rafah. The UN estimates $40 billion needed to rebuild Gaza. Since Oct 7, at least 34,622 Palestinians killed and 77,867 wounded; 75% of civilian infrastructure destroyed.

Maldives Republic | 2 years, 1 month ago | concerned

US Sanctions Israeli Military Unit Over Human Rights Violations Despite Aid Package Approval

The US is sanctioning the Israeli military unit Netzah Yehuda for human rights abuses against Palestinians in the West Bank, under the Leahy Law, which prohibits military aid to units committing gross violations. This comes after the US House approved a $26 billion aid package to Israel. Israeli leaders reacted angrily. Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei praised Iran's missile strike on Israel, which launched over 300 projectiles on April 13. In Gaza, Israeli attacks killed dozens, and a mass grave was discovered at Nasser Medical Complex; over 34,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 7.

Maldives Republic | 2 years, 1 month ago | tense

US, UK Impose Sanctions on Iran; UNSC Considers UN Membership for Palestine

The US and UK imposed new sanctions on Iran after Iran's retaliatory attack on Israel. The US Treasury targeted 16 individuals and two entities linked to drone engine production. UK sanctions focus on Iranian military organizations and individuals. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen vowed further actions. The UN Security Council will vote on Palestinian full UN membership, but the US is expected to block. In Gaza, Israeli forces killed 11 Palestinians including five children in southern Rafah. Health workers uncovered 30 bodies at al-Shifa Hospital, with accusations of executions by the Israeli army.